Recent research from GoodHabitz has uncovered a significant shortcoming within the UK workforce regarding training in artificial intelligence (AI) tools. The study, conducted in conjunction with Censuswide, found that approximately one in five UK employees—amounting to about 6.31 million workers—have not received adequate training from their employers on how to effectively engage with AI technologies. This alarming statistic emerges despite the fact that a staggering 70% of the UK workforce is currently utilizing AI in their roles.
Chris Chen, the Chief Technology Officer of GoodHabitz, emphasizes the gravity of the situation: “The research shows that we are in a really tough spot right now. AI is changing everything about how we work and think, but most of our people aren’t ready for it.” Chen insists that training should not only focus on the operational use of AI tools but also on essential human skills that enhance AI’s impact, including effective communication, emotional understanding, and complex problem analysis. Without prompt action to bring the workforce up to speed, UK companies risk falling behind their global counterparts.
The report highlights an urgent need for a national upskilling initiative. Nearly half, or 48%, of the surveyed employees noted that AI has increased the importance of essential skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and analytical thinking, which were deemed crucial by 39%, 38%, and 37% of respondents, respectively.
Ed Monk, the CEO of the Learning and Performance Institute, referred to the findings as a “wake-up call” for UK businesses. “AI has enormous potential to enhance productivity,” he stated, adding, “but without the right skills, that potential will be wasted.” Monk argues that it is imperative for every employee, regardless of their position, to receive the necessary training to not only operate AI tools but also to amalgamate them with distinctly human abilities such as adaptability and critical thinking. Investing in these human-centered skills alongside AI literacy may prove vital for maintaining competitiveness in an increasingly globalized marketplace.
Despite the concerning skills gap, some positive insights arise from the study. An impressive 66% of employees reported that AI has empowered them to carry out tasks previously deemed impossible, showcasing its transformative potential. Moreover, AI’s efficiency gained traction with employees saving an average of 37 minutes per day, equating to more than 150 hours annually. This time-saving advantage reflects AI’s capacity to revolutionize workplace productivity.
However, the research reveals that while a considerable portion of employees (68%) feel they possess some necessary skills for working with AI, significant gaps still exist. Alarmingly, nearly half (47%) of the employees surveyed expressed a preference for relying on their own skills instead of utilizing AI tools. This suggests a critical need to foster trust and increase literacy surrounding AI within the workforce.
Chen points out the opportunity presented by these challenges, stating that improving AI training across organizations is crucial. “We’ve got a big job ahead of us, but it’s also a great chance to get ahead,” he remarked. Companies that prioritize boosting their workforce’s familiarity with AI tools will likely enjoy a competitive edge as AI continues to permeate various aspects of business operations.
To address the gap in AI training, GoodHabitz has implemented an AI-enhanced learning platform designed to customize employee education through self-assessments and personalized course recommendations. This progressive approach allows organizations to tailor their training programs to meet individual needs, thereby maximizing the potential benefits of AI.
Additionally, the potential for AI to enhance job satisfaction cannot be overlooked. The survey reveals that 62% of employees feel that integrating AI into their roles has increased their enjoyment at work. This insight signifies that, with appropriate training, AI could also play a crucial role in improving workforce morale and reducing turnover rates.
As the importance of AI in the workplace escalates, the mandate for comprehensive training becomes even more pressing. Organizations must recognize that equipping employees with the necessary skills to harness AI not only enables individual success but also propels collective organizational growth. To remain competitive in the ever-changing business landscape, prioritizing AI education and addressing the skills gap in the workforce is no longer optional—it is essential.
